My View on Solar:
My roof – Updated Panels -On a Cloud Today ( washing the panes)
After installing my own solar, here is my seniors’ checklist before purchasing solar. Further, I upgrade energy systems and appliances beforehand to save on solar costs.
Solar systems have many moving parts, and it is not easy to find. There are large companies and local companies to choose from. I interviewed several companies, national and local. Ten years ago, we partnered with a regional company offering residential and commercial solar solutions. We wanted to purchase the right system. The key to looking at solar is a full energy audit of your home. There are many areas in a home that may save money even before looking at solar. Home insulation, Windows and Doors, refrigerators, clothes dryers, heating and air conditioning systems, pools, and spas. All of those use much of your energy. The Internet of Things has multiple little gadgets that eat power ( yes, a drop in the bucket, but when you have 100, that adds up)
The retirement home purchased was in the desert of Palm Springs. That made air conditioning would be a large part of the electrical bill. Luckily, there are about 360 days of sunshine here. Make solar that much better. In the first round, we looked at the major appliances in the home. The kitchen and laundry room. We did upgrade the refrigerator, dishwasher, and eclectic stove to a more energy-efficient model. Next was looking at the home roof. it was older and had no insulations. Homes here have flat roofs and no attic space. The roof was replaced with 4 inches of solid insulation and reroofed with a hot tar & paper system. The work upfront will save you money in the long run with my checklist before installing solar panels in your home.
We then looked at our pool and spa. When the home was purchased, the pool had a single-speed motor. The pool pump was replaced with a variable-speed programmable pump, cutting $40 monthly off the electric bill. The Spa was a stand-alone unit, which was replaced with a newer, better-insulated unit. The home electrical panel was older, and only 100 amp service was provided to the home. It was upgraded not because of solar energy but because we would need more power and a better insurance rate.
Remember to notify your home insurance company of the solar installation. Depending on your policy limits, they will adjust your policy for the home-added value to cover the solar system.
Buy – Variable Speed Pool Pumps
Finally, looking at the trees around the home, I found four trees that had to be removed. They shaded the part of the roof where the panels would be placed during the day. I was sad to see the palm tree go, but that was needed before solar.
The company did all the work. They planned out 26 panels on the roof. The design was upgraded to tilt the panel 5 % for better sun coverage. Our city was required to cover the panel stands from the view that broke the roof line from the public street side. Local city ordinances at the time. The solar company had to wrap a sheet metal skirt around the standings for the panels.
Ten years ago, the project was finished for $30,000. We have had little trouble with the panels. One died, but it was under warranty for replacement. We just had another solar company replace all the old panels with newer ones. The old panels max out at about 165 watts per panel. The newer panels came in at around 250 watts per panel. Generating more power, with 2 leat panels on the roof. That upgrade was around $10,000. So the solar system should be set for the next 10 to 20 years. We may need to update panels in another 10 years since there are 2 EV cars in the family now. The goal was to zero out our power usage. We are not near that, but we are happy with the systems. For our service, we use a local solar company. The original company is out of warranty and does not provide residential servicing. If you are not up for going on your roof with a hose and bucket, you do have to wash the panels. You need to factor in some semi-annual cleaning costs from one of many that are now in business.
I am not a professional contractor. This view is based on my installation experience and working with a licensed professional contractor. You must seek advice on construction or solar (install/lease/purchase) from your area’s licensed, insured, and bonded contractors. Also, contact your town/city planning and code departments before starting work on your home for any required permits or plan review/approval.
New Low E dual pane windows upgraded
Sunny Bou Solar converter
Main Home Panel box Upgrade 200amps
Outline
I. Assessing Roof Condition
II. Enhancing Home Insulation
III. Upgrading Electrical System
IV. Evaluating Energy Efficiency
V. Understanding Solar Panel Placement
Section 1: Solar Panels Assessing Roof Condition
When preparing your home for solar panel installation, the first and most crucial step is to assess the condition of your roof. Your roof is the foundation on which your solar panels will be mounted, so ensuring it is in top shape is essential.
Start by conducting a thorough inspection of your roof. Look for any signs of damage, such as missing or broken shingles, leaks, or structural issues. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or shows significant wear and tear, it may be worth considering a replacement before moving forward with solar panel installation. Investing in a new roof can save you from potential headaches and additional costs.
Another important factor to consider is the type of roofing material. Solar panels can be installed on various roofs, including asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and flat roofs. However, some materials are more compatible with solar panel installation than others. For instance, metal roofs are highly durable and can last longer than asphalt shingles, making them an excellent choice for solar panel mounts.
Additionally, the orientation and slope of your roof play a significant role in the efficiency of your solar panels. Ideally, your roof should be south-facing and slope between 15 and 40 degrees to maximize sunlight exposure. If your roof does not meet these criteria, you may need to explore alternative mounting options or make adjustments to improve its suitability for solar panels.
In summary, assessing and potentially upgrading your roof is critical before purchasing solar panels. A well-maintained, appropriately oriented roof will ensure that your solar panels perform at their best, providing maximum energy savings and a higher return on investment.
Section 2: Enhancing Home Insulation
Enhancing home insulation is another key home improvement to consider before installing solar panels. Proper insulation helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the overall energy consumption of your home. This improvement not only makes your home more comfortable but also complements the efficiency of your solar energy system.
Start by inspecting the insulation in your attic, walls, and floors. Look for any gaps, cracks, or areas where the insulation may be lacking. Adding or upgrading insulation in these areas can significantly reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, making your home more energy-efficient.
Various insulation materials are available, including fiberglass, cellulose, foam, and reflective insulation. Each type has its advantages and is suitable for different areas of your home. For example, fiberglass and cellulose are commonly used in attics and walls, while foam insulation is ideal for sealing gaps and cracks.
In addition to traditional insulation, consider investing in energy-efficient windows and doors. These upgrades can further enhance your home’s insulation by preventing drafts and reducing heat transfer. Look for windows and doors with a high Energy Star rating to ensure maximum efficiency.
Sealing air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings is also essential. Use weatherstripping and caulking to seal gaps and prevent air infiltration. This simple yet effective improvement can significantly impact your home’s energy efficiency and comfort.
By enhancing your home’s insulation, you create a more energy-efficient environment that complements the benefits of solar panels. This improvement helps reduce your home’s overall energy consumption, allowing your solar energy system to cover a larger portion of your energy needs.
Section 3: Solar Ready Upgrading Electrical System
Upgrading your home’s electrical system is critical to ensure it can handle the additional load from solar panels. An outdated or inadequate electrical system may not be able to support the increased energy production, leading to potential issues and inefficiencies.
Begin by having a licensed electrician thoroughly inspect your electrical system. This inspection should include an assessment of your electrical panel, wiring, and overall capacity. If your electrical panel is old or outdated, it may need to be upgraded to accommodate the increased energy flow from the solar panels.
Additional electrical work may be required to ensure your home is ready for solar panel installation. This can include upgrading the wiring, adding new circuits, or installing additional safety features such as surge protectors and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). These upgrades help ensure that your electrical system is safe, reliable, and capable of handling the increased energy production from your solar panels.
Another important consideration is the installation of a dedicated solar inverter. The inverter converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used in your home. Ensuring that the inverter is properly installed and compatible with your electrical system is essential for efficiently operating your solar energy system.
Additionally, consider installing a home energy monitoring system. This system allows you to track your energy usage and solar energy production in real-time, providing valuable insights into your energy consumption patterns and helping you make informed decisions about energy efficiency improvements.
Upgrading your electrical system before installing solar panels ensures your home is prepared to handle the increased energy production. This improvement helps optimize the performance of your solar energy system, providing you with reliable and efficient energy for years to come.
Section 4: Home Evaluating Energy Efficiency
Evaluating and improving your home’s overall energy efficiency is crucial before investing in solar panels. By reducing your energy consumption, you can maximize the benefits of your solar energy system and achieve greater energy savings.
Start by conducting an energy audit of your home. An energy audit involves assessing your home’s energy usage, identifying areas of energy waste, and recommending improvements. You can hire a professional energy auditor or use DIY energy audit tools to conduct the assessment.
Inefficient lighting, outdated appliances, and poor insulation are common causes of home energy waste. Replacing incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs can significantly reduce energy consumption. Additionally, consider upgrading to Energy Star-rated appliances designed to use less energy while providing the same level of performance.
Large energy-using appliances and home systems need to be checked first. Pool pumps take a lot of energy if they cannot schedule programming and multispeed newer units. HVAC ( a/c and heating) systems need to be checked for efficiency. Air conditioning units have a SERR rating. They all must be checked to see if upgrading is needed. the highest you can afford. Heating and heat pump options are available in some areas. It’s all about lowering your electric bill with targeted upgrades before you look at solar.
Another effective way to improve energy efficiency is to implement smart home technologies. Smart thermostats, for example, allow you to control your home’s heating and cooling systems remotely, ensuring that your home is always at the optimal temperature without wasting energy. Similarly, smart lighting systems can be programmed to turn off lights when not in use, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
In addition to these upgrades, consider implementing energy-saving habits in your daily routine. Simple actions such as turning off lights when leaving a room, unplugging electronics when not in use, and using natural light during the day can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency.
By evaluating and improving your home’s energy efficiency, you create a more sustainable living environment that complements the benefits of solar panels. This improvement helps reduce your overall energy consumption, allowing your solar energy system to cover a larger portion of your energy needs and providing greater energy savings.
Section 5: Understanding Solar Panel Placement
Understanding the optimal placement of your solar panels is essential for maximizing their efficiency and energy production. Your solar panels’ location, orientation, and angle can significantly impact their performance.
Begin by assessing the available space on your roof or property for solar panel installation. The ideal location should receive maximum sunlight throughout the day, with minimal shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions. In general, south-facing roofs are the most effective for solar panel placement in the Northern Hemisphere, as they receive the most sunlight.
In addition to the orientation, consider the angle or tilt of your solar panels. The optimal tilt angle depends on your geographic location and the time of year. Generally, the angle should equal your latitude to maximize sunlight exposure. Adjustable mounts can be used to change the angle of the panels throughout the year, optimizing their performance for different seasons.
If your roof is unsuitable for solar panel installation, consider alternative mounting options such as ground-mounted systems or solar carports. These options provide flexibility in placement and can be adjusted to achieve the optimal orientation and angle for maximum sunlight exposure.
It’s also important to consider the aesthetic impact of solar panels on your home. Work with your solar installer to design a system that blends seamlessly with your home’s architecture and enhances its overall appearance. Modern solar panels come in various styles and colors, allowing you to choose a design that complements your house.
Understanding the optimal placement of your solar panels ensures that they receive maximum sunlight exposure, providing you with the highest possible energy production and savings. This improvement helps you get the most out of your solar energy system, making it a valuable investment for your home.
Key Takeaways
a. Assess your roof’s condition before installing solar panels.
b. Enhance home insulation for better energy efficiency.
c. Upgrade your electrical system to handle increased energy production.
d. Evaluate and improve overall energy efficiency in your home.
e. Understand optimal solar panel placement for maximum efficiency.
Conclusion
In conclusion, preparing your home for solar panel installation involves several important steps to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. Assessing and potentially upgrading your roof is crucial, as it is the foundation for your solar panels. Enhancing home insulation and upgrading your electrical system further complement the benefits of solar energy by reducing overall energy consumption and ensuring your home can handle the increased energy production. The main goal is to reduce your current energy usage as much as possible. Upgrade your home systems before solar reduces solar system installation costs. That is why I did my seniors’ checklist before installing solar panels
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Evaluating your home’s energy efficiency and making necessary improvements helps create a sustainable living environment, allowing your solar panels to cover a larger portion of your energy needs. Understanding the optimal placement of your solar panels ensures they receive maximum sunlight exposure, providing you with the highest possible energy production and savings.
By taking these steps, you can maximize the benefits of your solar energy system, achieve greater energy savings, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Whether new to solar energy or looking to optimize your existing system, these home improvements are key to a successful solar panel installation.
Careful investigation into home improvements is essential before installing solar panels. If your electrical bill can be reduced monthly, putting solar on your roof will save you money in the long run.